The Gathering is the bi-annual event for everyone involved or interested in rural touring. Connecting promoters from across the Highlands and Islands with performers, producers, funders and other creative professionals, it’s a welcoming space to network, build skills and showcase new work.
‘S e tachartas bliadhnail a th’ anns a’ Chruinneachadh, ‘s e a’ toirt còmhla luchd-brosnachaidh nan ealan bho air feadh na Gàidhealtachd agus nan Eilean, cuide ri cleasaichean, ceòladairean, riochdairean, luchd-maoineachaidh agus luchd-proifeiseanta eile bhon roinn chruthachail gus ar lìonradh a neartachadh, sgilean cudromach a thogail agus obair chruthachail ùr a thaisbeanadh.
This year’s event will be held at the beautiful Strathpeffer Pavilion. We’re working on a jam-packed programme of brilliant live performances, socialising, sharing and delicious food and drink. It’s going to be a good one! Watch this space for further details.
We are now accepting applications from professional performers who’d like to showcase at The Gathering. Find out more here.
Fri 9 May
2pm: Arrival + welcome
3-6pm: Showcases + discussions
6-7pm: Networking + drinks in the bar
7pm-late: Dinner + live performance
10.30pm: Bus to Inverness/Dingwall
Sat 10 May
10am: Tea/coffee + welcome
10.30am-12.30pm: Showcases + discussions
12.30pm: Lunch
1.30-4pm: Showcases + wee turns
4pm: Networking + Discussions
6pm: Event ends / buses to Inverness/Dingwall
Not a member?
The Gathering 2025 is a members only event but we’d love to see new members join us! By registering for The Gathering, you are committing to becoming a member of The Touring Network (annual memberships from £20).
Supporting rural arts
All ticket sales will contribute to the cost of the event. Any profits will go back into our funding pot and directly support live performance in the region.
Need support? We can help
We acknowledge cost could be a barrier to attending The Gathering, particularly for members travelling from the far reaches of our vast region. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if this is the case. All Corrie and Cairn members are eligible to apply to our Access Fund to help with travel, accommodation, caring responsibilities, income loss or disability needs. Contact office@thetouringnetwork.com to check eligibility before registering.
Latest News
In partnership with
Findhorn Bay Festival
We are delighted that Gathering attendees will get to experience the festival on both the Thursday & Friday evenings, and we have handpicked a selection of shows to offer attendees as part of their ticket.
Tickets for each performance are limited, so attendees will have the opportunity to request their 1st, 2nd & 3rd choices for each evening when registering.
* programme elements are included in attendee ticket.
Visiting Forres
Transport
Forres is about 25 miles, 40 kilometres, east of Inverness, just off the A96 trunk road. There are daily trains and bus connections from other UK cities to Inverness, and from Inverness to Forres. Plan your journey by train or bus.
The venues this year are spread out across the Findhorn Bay area, and most are accessible by public transport. However, due to the packed schedule for the Gathering and Findhorn Bay Festival, we are investigating coordinated transport options. If you are willing to assist by car sharing to from and during The Gathering, please indicate this on the registration form or get in touch to let us know.
Travel Bursaries
Travel bursaries of £60 each are available to promoter and performer members who require financial assistance to attend.
Accommodation
Tullochwood Lodge
Limited accommodation is available for attendees at reduced rates – book this when you buy tickets. Venue website here.
£148 for a double/twin room x 2 nights, plus option to stay an extra night on Sat for FREE! (breakfast pack provided)
Why not make the most of the extra bed space and bring a partner/friend too? There’s plenty going on at the Findhorn Bay Festival to amuse them while you attend the Gathering!
Newbold House
For those on a tighter budget and happy to share a room, there are a few beds available – book this when you buy tickets. Venue website here
£50 for a single bed in a shared room x 2 nights (breakfast included).
Other Accommodation
Have you sorted your accomodation yet? See our recommendations here.
Cuan Mor Restaurant
The Rockfield Centre
Promoter & Performer Members
General- Full access to The Gathering programme (Thu – Sat) + Lunch + dinner on Thu & Fri + refreshments throughout + 2 x tickets to your choice of performances at the Findhorn Bay Festival ¥ – Doesn’t include – accommodation* or transport**
Friends of The Touring Network
General- Access to The Gathering programme (Fri – Sat) + Lunch + dinner on Fri + refreshments throughout + 1 x ticket to your choice of performance at the Findhorn Bay Festival on Fri eve ¥ + Networking stand during Contact Time (limited places allocated on a first come, first served basis – request at registration) – Doesn’t include – accommodation* or transport**
Non-Members
Partners, industry/sector professional, promoters or performers who aren't members of The Touring Network- Access to The Gathering programme (Fri – Sat) + Lunch + dinner on Fri + refreshments throughout + 1 x ticket to your choice of performance at the Findhorn Bay Festival on Fri eve ¥ + Networking stand during Contact Time (limited places allocated on a first come, first served basis – request at registration) – Doesn’t include – accommodation* or transport**